What is general engineering?General engineering is the course of study most engineers take during their undergraduate studies that prepares them for their engineering concentration. General engineering covers the basic principles of engineering. It demonstrates how the application of science and technology can be used to design and build new buildings, machines, or objects. Because it is so broad in scope, most general engineering majors will eventually select a concentration during their graduate studies that is more focused on a particular branch of engineering.

How does general engineering relate to the other branches?General engineering lays down a strong engineering foundation. Whether you choose to major in mechanical, biological or chemical engineering, you will discover that all these branches are based on the principles taught in general engineering. Therefore, it is necessary that all engineers start out with some understanding of general engineering before they focus on a specialized subject.

Do you have to become an engineer with a general engineering degree?No. It is one of the most flexible degrees available in college because its skills can easily be applied elsewhere. Some students who graduate with general engineering degrees choose to become engineering marketing representatives, while others work as patent attorneys. Others turn towards the business of consulting and engineering administration, especially if they are also interested in pursuing business goals. Of course, they can also focus on engineering jobs in research and development, systems engineering, and process engineering. None of these positions require specialized engineering degrees.

Engineers are professionals trained in a branch of engineering, such as civil, structural, or electrical. For example, a civil engineer is a professional trained in the design, planning and construction of major public structural projects, such as dams, bridges, and other large facilities. Engineers may focus on city building projects, environmental land projects, architectural construction, sound quality, technical processes and systems, marketing, transportation, public works projects, school construction, aerospace design, product research, and electronic design. Other branches include structural, chemical, environmental, computer science, software, and mechanical. Many engineers fall under the heading “general engineers,” which can be made up of many sub disciplines of engineering. This can include not only civil and structural engineers, but electrical, environmental, aerospace, technical, mechanical, agriculture, and geophysical engineers as well. Cities, towns and governments planning large structural projects, such as bridges and dams, often hire a civil engineer to design and plan the structural integrity of such a project, ensuring the structure will be able to withstand time, weather and other elements. Companies often hire an engineer for professional consultation on operating systems, maintenance, technical processes and applications, design, product research, sound, marketing, technology and architecture. You can find general engineering firms in your community by looking in your local phone book or by searching online directory listings. If you're interested in becoming a general engineer, you can attend a college, university or night school to obtain a degree, whether you will focus on residential, commercial or industrial applications. Often, it takes more than the standard four years to become an engineer. You also need to take on internship with engineering firms before becoming licensed.